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tell you plain that it is not of weight or moment to match your quarrel with him. Nonetheless, though no more than an insult was offered me and a deep, abiding hurt was done to you, your revenge can be no greater than mine. I will not try to convince you of the necessity of accepting this injustice. All I will say is that sometimes a man must endure a great injury for the good of the realm at large. When Lord Ian returns, he will explain more fully to you why it is wrong and impossible to do the king any injury, no matter what kind of devil he is." |
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"Madam, madam," Sir Guy cried, holding his head in his hands, "I do not understand you at all." |
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"No, indeed, and no wonder. You are wounded and tired, and I am gabbling about political matters. Beorn, take Sir Guy to the eastern wall chamber. I will send the maids to attend to him. Let them tell me if there is any wound I must see to myself." She looked at the young man's clothes distastefully. "And throw those things he is wearing to the dog boys. I will send down some suitable garments." She paused again and cocked her head, examining Sir Guy's face with attention. It had a stubble of unshaven beard, but it was plain that in less critical moments he was clean-shaven. ''Yes, and do not permit him to be shaved. We will all be safer, Sir Guy, if you pretend love for the king and ape him by growing a neat beard and mustachejust like the king's." |
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Sir Guy stared even more uncomprehendingly. "Madam, I beg you to tell me what will become of my men," he pleaded. "You speak as if I am a guest in your castle, and this cannot be. Had I known you were at odds with the king, I would neverI beg pardon. I do not mean to excuse myself, but do not make me hang by my fingers." |
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"As to your men, I can only assure you that Lord Ian is both good-tempered and just. I imagine he will sieve them and dispose of them suitably to their characters and abilities. Final justice rests with me on these lands. |
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